Biddulph dog walkers have been warned after what appeared to be pieces of chocolate with glass stuck inside, as well as rat poison, were left at various local green spaces.

The dangerous findings were spotted yesterday (Sunday) by local residents who took to social media to make dog owners aware.

One resident found the chocolate with pieces of glass wedged inside when out walking around Church Road park.

They said: "My husband and I took our three year old son for a walk to Church Road park at about 6pm.

"When we got onto the park we notice this. At first we think it is dog poo, then on closer inspection realise it was glass embedded in chocolate of some kind.

"Unfortunately, I had nothing with me to clean it up. Just be careful. I know dogs shouldn't be on the park, but it could still cause injury to a child."

Residents reacted with disgust, with one saying it was "such a shame that our lovely little town just gets ruined by such people."

Another pointed out that, strangely, the glass had been left in an area where dogs weren't permitted anyway, adding: "Dogs aren't permitted in the park, so the perpetrator isn't even intelligent enough to bait a spot where dogs are permitted."

Also yesterday, volunteers at Newpool Meadows village green said they found what appeared to be rat poison being left at the local beauty spot.

They posted a picture of red pellets being left in the soil, and explained they had reported it to the police.

They said: "Please be careful if you are on the village green, it looks like someone's put rat poison down. I will report it to the police."

They also issued advice for anyone else who might happen to find the pellets, adding: "If anyone finds any of these red pellets, can you (if possible) please pick them up and put them in a plastic bag.

"Protect your hands when doing so. Most dog owners usually carry a few doggie bags.

"If you leave a comment on the Facebook page we will arrange for collection or give you an address to drop them off near the Village green. Thank you for your support."

Biddulph Nub News has contacted Staffordshire Police for comment.